Menopause is the stopping of your periods, in simpler terms. It is a phase of natural aging and a part of life. Essentially, there is reduced production of estrogen and progesterone due to a decline in ovarian function. The average Indian age for menopause is 46 years!

Is there any test to diagnose menopause? No! There is no particular test to say if you are menopausal. It requires blood tests, an ultrasound scan, and a detailed history. Twelve months of ‘no periods’ establishes menopause. Menopause doesn’t start suddenly in a day. As it is a phase, it gradually sets in over a period of years.

How do I know if I’m menopausal? Three to five years before it starts, there is a period called ‘perimenopause.’ Most of the time, it starts with irregular periods, hot flashes, night sweats, or even mood swings. Symptoms usually include irregular cycles, loss of libido, mood swings, vaginal dryness, weight gain, hot flashes, and night sweats. Women are also prone to osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and cerebrovascular disorders because estrogen has a protective effect on bones and the heart.

What can you do to deal with it? Navigating menopause needs effort from yourself, your family (for emotional support), and, of course, your doctors.

• Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and wearing light clothes will help with hot flashes and night sweats.
• Kegel exercises, Vitamin E intake, and water-based lubricants can help with vaginal dryness.
• An active lifestyle with regular exercise and healthy eating not only benefits overall health but also helps reduce weight gain, which happens due to reduced fat metabolism.

HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) is suitable only for selective women who don’t have high risk factors for developing breast cancer, endometrial cancer, or blood clot formation. This will be decided by your doctor.

When should you consult a doctor?

• If, during perimenopause or menopause, you experience heavy, very frequent, or painful bleeding (which wasn’t present before)
• If you had 12 continuous months of no periods and suddenly start bleeding or spotting (whether it occurs one year after menopause or even 20 years later)
• If your yearly scan shows an endometrial thickness of more than 5 mm

YOU MUST VISIT YOUR DOCTOR!!

It is important to understand that menopause is just a part of midlife, and how informed we are and how smartly we navigate through it will make the future part of life easier!

A proper holistic approach is essential during menopause to address the various issues that arise with this phase of life.